What it takes to cross no-man’s land – the sense of a woman and her 4x4.

Not every man, or every 4x4 is made for the rugged interiors of Sarawak. Well, not every man is quite as gutsy as one particular Isuzu D-Max owner.

Meet Ms. Vivian Kho. An entrepreneur who travels extensively between Sarawak towns in her 3.0 litre D-Max.

Gaining miles on mettle and metal

If long distance off-roading becomes an event in the Olympics, Malaysia has an outstanding contender in both driver and vehicle.

Ms. Kho proudly says that whilst most take 15 hours to drive from Kuching to Miri, “I take 10 hours”.

And like the savvy entrepreneur who knows the value of the ringgit, Ms. Kho testifies that the D-Max’s low fuel consumption makes good business sense.

Rock ‘n roll on rock and gravel

Her 4x4 routine journeys are merciless on the gut and butt. (Imagine what tossed salad goes through!)

The unforgiving terrain is definitely factored in when choosing a vehicle. “The D-Max has better suspension. It’s something to appreciate when you run out of roads!”

Speaking of roads, the tyres of her 4x4 have encountered more than any geologist. From tar to rocky gravel, amber soil to white sandy trails, black soil to soft soil – a range that gives new meaning to ‘well-travelled’.

The right 4x4 isn’t just a good idea, it’s an absolute must

On the best and worst of terrains, your vehicle is the partner to count on. “I was looking for a vehicle that could overcome any situation.”

When it rains, black soil surfaces become extremely slippery. Ms. Kho has witnessed others trying to negotiate steep slopes and ending up in the ditches.

Well boys, before you boldly venture into no-man’s land, listen to the lady.